Antonis Samaras’ latest appearance at the War Museum left little ambiguity regarding his disapproval of the government’s handling of foreign policy and broader governance. The former prime minister, while refraining from explicitly announcing a new political formation — as speculation continues to swirl — pointedly kept the possibility alive. As protothema.gr had previously reported, Samaras chose not to close the door on the discussion, allowing it instead to remain politically fertile. “His positions gain far more traction under the shadow of party formation than they might if such a move had already materialized,” notes a seasoned political analyst.
The government’s official stance remains a terse “no comment.” Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, meeting today with the new ND party secretary Kostas Skrekas, is not expected to reference Samaras — even indirectly. Nonetheless, senior government figures are closely monitoring the increasing intensity of Samaras’ rhetoric, especially on national issues. Within New Democracy, assessments vary: while some believe Samaras is preparing a decisive political move, others argue that he prefers to wield influence without committing to a new structure. A common thread, however, is the consensus that no immediate moves are forthcoming.
Samaras was quick to retort to what he interpreted as veiled criticism from Mitsotakis, particularly the latter’s jab at “self-appointed couch advisers” on national affairs. The response dripped with sarcasm: “Tell him not to worry. He has Gerapetritis, Dokos, and all of ELIAMEP beside him. All good! And no worse. God help us,” the former PM quipped, drawing laughter — and clear battle lines.
The Language of “Hope”
Samaras seemed to relish the renewed spotlight. He returned fire at Dora Bakoyannis, who had earlier accused certain figures of distorting both his words and silences. Rather than dial back, Samaras leaned into the narrative, invoking “responsibility” and “hope” as guiding principles, and by extension, political tools. “What I have to say about my country, I will continue to say. That’s a matter of responsibility. And from responsibility is born hope,” he declared, carefully choosing words that carry deep historical resonance — especially when tied to party movements.
His phrasing — “Hope is coming” — deliberately echoed the now-iconic SYRIZA slogan, sparking immediate associations and further fueling the sense that Samaras is calibrating a political comeback without formalizing it.
The Karamanlis Signal — Or Lack Thereof
Attendance at the event offered further clues. Compared to last year’s showing, ND MPs appeared in noticeably smaller numbers. Notable attendees included Euripides Stylianidis and George Vlachos — figures with ties to Kostas Karamanlis — as well as Maximos Charakopoulos, a bridge between the party’s older generations. Outspoken Samaras allies such as Miltos Chrysomallis and Giorgos Karasmanis were also present, though one observer noted caustically, “Most of those here have already drifted away from the Maximos Mansion orbit.”
Kostas Karamanlis himself made notable remarks on national security and Turkey’s position in European defense, yet steered clear of any domestic political commentary. The subtext was clear: while he and Samaras may align on certain foreign policy concerns, Karamanlis has little interest in being associated — even tacitly — with a potential schism. Unlike Samaras, he remains inside the party’s institutional fold and appears intent on preserving that status, despite his frequent internal critiques.
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